The Senegal forward has since established himself as a key component in Jurgen Klopp’s side after his £34million transfer three years ago.
Having caught the eye with his lightning speed and eye for goal at St Mary’s, there were plenty of suitors and United saw their transfer target snapped up from under their nose by Liverpool.
“Yes, I was really, really close because I even met up with them. So I was coming, I was there and I spoke with the boss who was there before (Van Gaal).
‘”They made an offer, but in the same week, Klopp called me. He said: “I think it’s the right club. The right coach for me, and I think it’s better that I go to Liverpool’.
“For me I think it was the right time as well. I said, “I am going to Liverpool,” Mane told the UK Mirror.
